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Events for March 7, 2025

First Friday is celebrated on the first Friday of each month throughout Downtown Raleigh to showcase the best of our city's creative community. Thousands venture downtown to visit art galleries & studios open late to host exhibits, artist talks, and creative activities. Retailers and restaurants also get in on the fun with live music, vendor markets, specials/discounts, and more. There's something for everyone each First Friday. 

Create your own First Friday itinerary by selecting the hearts for events and experiences you don't want to miss. Receive a custom map and itinerary to guide your First Friday evening!

The Architect Bar and Social House
108 1/2 E Hargett St - Moore Square District
First Friday Cocktail Mixer & DJ Party

Get ready for an unforgettable night at The Architect Bar & Social House every First Friday of the Month! Start your evening with a Cocktail Mixer from 8 PM to 10 PM, where you can enjoy crafted cocktails, mingle with fellow guests, and kick off the night in style. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, it's the perfect way to connect and unwind.

Then, from 10 PM to 2 AM, the vibe turns up with our DJ Party. DJ Baptiste features the hottest tracks, high-energy beats, and an electric atmosphere that will keep you on your feet all night long. Whether you're enjoying creative cocktails or dancing the night away, there's something for everyone at The Architect. Join us for a night of mixing, mingling, and dancing—it's the ultimate way to kick off your weekend!

CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum)
409 W Martin St - Warehouse District District
First Friday at CAM
6pm - 9pm

Join us for free at CAM Raleigh for fresh art, good tunes, and great vibes! We always have something new to explore.

Designed For Joy
517 W Cabarrus St - Warehouse District District
Make & Take a Raleigh Acorn Bell at Designed For Joy

Celebrate Raleigh's First Friday with a unique make-and-take event! Drop-in anytime between 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Designed For Joy studio in downtown Raleigh to create your very own Raleigh Acorn Bell—a charming keepsake that symbolizes our "City of Oaks."

Hartwell
620 W South St - Warehouse District District
Feminist First Friday - Women's History Month Market & Block Party
5pm - 8pm

Join us for a special First Friday celebration dedicated to the incredible contributions of women throughout history, and today.

Kick-off Women’s History Month with...

  • A vendor market featuring local, women-owned businesses
  • Live music by 22 Strings
  • A community art project with Sarah Rosa Glickman
  • Free professional headshots from photographer Hannah Chalfant with hair touch-ups by Hightide Salon artists
  • Flash tattoos by Boreälyss Tattoo
  • Marbles Kids Museum science activities
  • Q+A Panel at 7:30pm with Hartwell owner
  • Guests: SAGE Girls and UNC Rex Mammography
  • Food and drinks on-site
  • And more!
The Merchant
126 S Salisbury St. - Fayetteville Street District
First Friday Ladies Night at The Merchant

Join us every First Friday of the Month for a fun-filled Ladies Night at The Merchant! Gather your friends and unwind with a special evening designed just for you. Enjoy exclusive access to our Ladies Night Menu, featuring refreshing and playful cocktails in every shade of pink, from bubbly spritzers to fruity concoctions. Special offers, upbeat music, and an unforgettable vibe make it a night you won't want to miss! Come relax, mingle, and enjoy a glamorous night with the best company in town!

NC Museum of Natural Sciences Store and Nature Art Gallery
11 W Jones St - Capital District District
Museum Movie Night: Spaceballs
5:30pm - 10pm

Museum Movie Night is back with Spaceballs on Friday, March 7. Catch the hilarious adventures of Lone Starr, Barf, Princess Vespa, and Dark Helmet from the Mel Brooks classic on our big screen!

We'll also have science activities with tie-ins to the film, trivia, prizes, and even an expert that harnesses the Schwartz.

Origami Styling
111 E Hargett St - Moore Square District
After Dark Sip ‘n Shop
6pm - 8pm

We’re open late for First Friday! Come shop vintage clothing, accessories, decor & furniture until 8pm. Enjoy a complimentary beverage & treats while you browse.